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VANIQA 11.5% CREAM

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About the medicine

How to use VANIQA 11.5% CREAM

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This page provides general information and does not replace a doctor’s consultation. Always consult a doctor before taking any medication. Seek urgent medical care if symptoms are severe.

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Introduction

Package Leaflet: Information for the User

Vaniqa 11.5% Cream

Eflornithine

Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start using this medicine because it contains important information for you.

  • Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.
  • If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
  • This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, even if their symptoms are the same as yours.
  • If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4.

Contents of the pack and other information:

  1. What is Vaniqa and what is it used for
  2. What you need to know before you use Vaniqa
  1. How to use Vaniqa
  2. Possible side effects

5 Storage of Vaniqa

  1. Contents of the pack and further information

1. What is Vaniqa and what is it used for

Vaniqa contains the active substance eflornithine. Eflornithine delays hair growth by its effect on a specific enzyme (a protein in the body involved in hair formation).

Vaniqa is used to reduce excessive hair growth (hirsutism) on the face in women over 18 years of age.

Doctor consultation

Not sure if this medicine is right for you?

Discuss your symptoms and treatment with a doctor online.

2. What you need to know before you use Vaniqa

Do not use Vaniqa:

  • if you are allergic to eflornithine or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6).

Warnings and precautions

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting to use Vaniqa.

  • tell your doctor about any other medical problems you are experiencing (especially those related to your kidneys or liver).

Excessive hair growth can be caused by underlying diseases. Consult your doctor if you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormone-producing tumors, or if you are taking medications that may induce hair growth, such as cyclosporin (after organ transplantation), glucocorticoids (e.g. for rheumatic or allergic diseases), minoxidil (for hypertension), phenobarbital (for seizures), or phenytoin (for seizures) or hormone replacement therapy with similar effects to male hormones.

Girls and adolescents

Vaniqa is notrecommended for use in persons under 18 years of age.

Other medicines and Vaniqa

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are using, have recently used or might use any other medicines, including those obtained without a prescription.

Consult your doctor if you need to use other medicines on the skin areas where you are using the cream.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should use an alternative method to treat your facial hair if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.

Driving and using machines

Vaniqa is not expected to affect your ability to drive or use machines.

Vaniqa contains cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcoholwhich may cause local skin reactions (e.g. contact dermatitis). Vaniqa also contains methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218) and propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E216)which may cause allergic reactions (possibly delayed).

3. How to use Vaniqa

Medicine questions

Started taking the medicine and have questions?

Discuss your symptoms and treatment with a doctor online.

Follow exactly the instructions for administration of this medicine given by your doctor.

In case of doubt, consult your doctor or pharmacist again.

  • Use it twice a day, leaving a gap of at least 8 hours.
  • If you experience irritation (e.g. stinging), reduce the use of Vaniqa to once a day until the irritation has passed. If it persists, contact your doctor.
  • If you have shaved or used any other hair removal method, you should wait at least 5 minutesbefore using Vaniqa. It may sting or burn if applied to broken or irritated skin.
  • Clean and dry the skin areas before applying the cream.
  • Apply a thin layer of cream and massage it in until no visible residue of the product remains on the treated areas.
  • Whenever possible, do notwash these skin areas during the 4 hours following application of the cream.
  • Wash your hands after applying the cream.
  • Wait at least 5 minutesbefore using makeup or sunscreens on the same areas.
  • When using it on the face, avoidcontact with the eyes or the inside of the nose or mouth. If Vaniqa accidentally gets into your eyes, mouth, or nose, rinse them well with water.

Vaniqa is nota hair removal cream, so you may need to continue with the method you use to remove hair, such as shaving or depilatory creams.

It may take up to 8 weeks before results are visible. It is important to continue using the cream. If you do not see any improvement after using it for 4 months, consult your doctor. If you stop using it, your original hair growth may return within 8 weeks.

If you use more Vaniqa than you should

If too much cream is applied to the skin, it is unlikely to harm you.

If you or someone else accidentally ingests Vaniqa, tell your doctor.

If you forget to use Vaniqa

Apply it as soon as you remember, but wait at least 8 hours before using it again.

If you stop treatment with Vaniqa

To maintain the reduction in hair growth, continue using Vaniqa as directed.

If you have any other questions about the use of this product, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

4. Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Side effects are usually limited to the skin and are mild. In such cases, they usually resolve without interruption of treatment with Vaniqa.

The frequency of possible side effects listed below is defined using the following convention:

very common (affects more than 1 user in 10)

common (affects 1 to 10 users in 100)

uncommon (affects 1 to 10 users in 1,000)

rare (affects 1 to 10 users in 10,000)

very rare (affects less than 1 user in 10,000)

frequency not known (cannot be estimated from the available data).

Very common (affects more than 1 user in 10)

  1. acne

Common (affects 1 to 10 users in 100)

  • dry skin
  • hair loss
  • inflammation around the pore
  • itching
  • rash
  • redness
  • skin irritation and bumps caused by shaving
  • skin irritation
  • burning, itching, or tingling sensation of the skin

Uncommon (affects 1 to 10 users in 1,000)

  • papular rash
  • cold sore
  • redness and irritation at the site of application of the cream
  • eczema
  • inflamed, numb, cracked, or dry lips
  • ingrown hairs
  • pale areas of skin
  • skin bleeding
  • skin furuncles
  • skin redness
  • skin inflammation
  • skin ulcers
  • swelling of the mouth or face
  1. abnormal hair texture or abnormal hair growth

Rare (affects 1 to 10 users in 10,000)

  • abnormal skin growth (skin neoplasia)
  • excessive hair growth
  • facial redness and pimples possibly with pus
  • other skin disorders
  • inflammation and redness of the skin with scaling and itching (seborrhoeic dermatitis)
  • rash with redness, bumps, or blisters
  • skin cysts
  • skin tightness

Reporting of side effects

If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the national reporting system listed in Appendix V. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

5. Storage of Vaniqa

Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.

Do notuse this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the packaging and on the bottom of the tube after EXP. The expiry date is the last day of the month stated.

Once opened, discard the tube with the remaining cream after 6 months.

Make sure to close the tube cap tightly after each use.

Do notstore above 25°C.

Medicines should notbe disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. This will help protect the environment.

6. Contents of the pack and further information

Composition of Vaniqa

The active substance is eflornithine.

Each gram of cream contains 115 mg of eflornithine (as monohydrate hydrochloride).

The other ingredients are:

Cetyl alcohol, macrogol cetoostearyl ether, dimethicone, glyceryl stearate, macrogol stearate, methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218), liquid paraffin, phenoxyethanol, propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E216), purified water, and stearyl alcohol. Occasionally, small amounts of sodium hydroxide (E524) are added to maintain normal acidity levels (pH levels).

Appearance and pack size of the product

Vaniqa is a white to off-white cream. It is available in tubes of 15 g, 30 g, and 60 g, but not all pack sizes may be marketed.

Marketing authorisation holder

Almirall, S.A.

Ronda General Mitre, 151

08022 Barcelona

Spain

Tel.: +34 93 291 30 00

Manufacturer

Almirall Hermal GmbH

Scholtzstrasse 3

D-21465 Reinbek

Germany

You can obtain further information on this medicine from the local representative of the marketing authorisation holder.

Belgium/België/Belgien

Almirall N.V.

Tel: +32 (0)2 771 86 37

Ireland

Almirall ApS

Tel.: +45 70 25 75 75

Bulgaria/Czech Republic/Croatia/Estonia/Greece/Hungary/Latvia/Lithuania/Malta/Romania/Slovenia/Slovakia

Almirall, S.A.

Tel: +34 93 291 30 00

Netherlands

Almirall BV

Tel.: +31 (0) 307991155

Germany/Luxembourg

Almirall Hermal GmbH

Tel: +49 (0)40 72704-0

Austria

Almirall GmbH

Tel.: +43 01/595 39 60

Denmark/Iceland/Norway/Finland/Sweden

Almirall ApS

Tel: +45 70 25 75 75

Poland

Almirall Sp. z o.o.

Tel.: +48 22 330 02 57

France

Almirall SAS

Tel: +33 (0)1 46 46 19 20

Portugal

Almirall - Produtos Farmacêuticos, Lda.

Tel.: +351 21 415 57 50

Italy

Almirall SpA

Tel.: +39 02 346181

United Kingdom

Almirall Limited

Tel.: +44 (0) 800 0087399

Date of last revision of this leaflet:

Detailed information on this medicine is available on the European Medicines Agency website: http://www.ema.europa.eu

Online doctors for VANIQA 11.5% CREAM

Discuss questions about VANIQA 11.5% CREAM, including use, safety considerations and prescription review, subject to medical assessment and local regulations.

5.0 (69)
Doctor

Tarek Agami

General medicine 11 years exp.

Dr. Tarek Agami is a general practitioner registered in both Portugal and Israel, with broad experience in family and preventive medicine. He offers online consultations for adults and children, providing personalised support for primary care needs, chronic disease management, and everyday health concerns.

Dr. Agami received clinical training and worked in leading medical institutions in Israel (Kaplan Medical Center, Barzilai Medical Center, Wolfson Medical Center) and Portugal (European Healthcare City, Viscura Internacional, Hospital Dr. José Maria Grande, Hospital Vila Franca de Xira). His approach combines international medical standards with individualised attention to each patient.

Main areas of consultation:

  • Diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic conditions (high blood pressure, diabetes, respiratory infections, cardiovascular symptoms)
  • Evaluation of symptoms and guidance on further diagnostic testing
  • Preventive check-ups and regular health monitoring
  • Medical support during travel or after relocation
  • Treatment adjustments and lifestyle recommendations based on your personal history
Dr. Agami provides medical support for patients using GLP-1 medications (such as Ozempic or Mounjaro) as part of a weight loss strategy. He offers individualised treatment planning, regular follow-up, dose adjustment, and advice on combining medication with sustainable lifestyle changes. Consultations follow the medical standards accepted in Portugal and Israel.

Dr. Agami is committed to evidence-based, patient-centred care, ensuring that each person receives trusted medical support tailored to their health goals.

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Doctor

Nuno Tavares Lopes

Family medicine 18 years exp.

Dr. Nuno Tavares Lopes is a licensed physician in Portugal with 17 years of experience in emergency medicine, family and general practice, and public health. He is the Director of Medical and Public Health Services at an international healthcare network and serves as an external consultant for the WHO and ECDC.

  • Emergency care: infections, fever, chest/abdominal pain, minor injuries, paediatric emergencies
  • Family medicine: hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol, chronic disease management
  • Travel medicine: pre-travel advice, vaccinations, fit-to-fly certificates, travel-related illnesses
  • Sexual and reproductive health: PrEP, STD prevention, counselling, treatment
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  • Sick leave (Baixa médica) connected to Segurança Social in Portugal
  • IMT medical certificates for driving licence exchange
Dr. Nuno Tavares Lopes provides medical support for patients using GLP-1 medications (Mounjaro, Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus) as part of a weight loss strategy. He offers individualised treatment planning, regular follow-up, dose adjustment, and advice on combining medication with sustainable lifestyle changes. Consultations follow the medical standards accepted in Europe.

Dr. Lopes also provides interpretation of medical tests, follow-up care for complex patients, and multilingual support. Whether for urgent concerns or long-term care, he helps patients act with clarity and confidence.

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Anastasiia Hladkykh

Psychiatry 15 years exp.

Dr Anastasiia Hladkykh is a physician-psychotherapist and psychologist with over 14 years of experience working with individuals struggling with various types of addictions and their families. She provides online consultations for adults, combining medical knowledge with deep psychological support and practical tools.

Key areas of expertise:

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Therapeutic approach:
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  • Prescribes medications when needed, but always aims to minimise unnecessary pharmaceutical use.
  • Certified in multiple evidence-based methods: CBT, NLP (Master Practitioner), Ericksonian hypnosis, symbol drama, art therapy, and systemic therapy.
  • Each consultation results in a clear, structured plan – patients leave knowing exactly what to do next.
Experience and background:
  • Member of the German association Gesundheitpraktikerin and the NGO “Mit dem Sonne in jedem Herzen.”
  • More than 18 publications in international peer-reviewed journals, translated into several languages.
  • Volunteer work with Ukrainian refugees and military personnel at the University Clinic of Regensburg.
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Doctor

Anastasiia Shalko

Family medicine 13 years exp.

Dr. Anastasiia Shalko is a general practitioner with a background in both paediatrics and general medicine. She graduated from Bogomolets National Medical University in Kyiv and completed her paediatric internship at the P.L. Shupyk National Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education. After working as a paediatrician in Kyiv, she relocated to Spain, where she has been practising general medicine since 2015, providing care for both adults and children.

Her work focuses on urgent, short-term medical concerns – situations where patients need quick guidance, symptom assessment and clear next steps. She helps people understand whether their symptoms require in-person evaluation, home management or a change in treatment. Common reasons for booking an online consultation include:

  • acute respiratory symptoms (cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever)
  • viral illnesses such as colds and seasonal infections
  • gastrointestinal complaints (nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, gastroenteritis)
  • sudden changes in how a child or adult feels
  • questions about existing treatment and whether adjustments are needed
  • renewal of prescriptions when clinically appropriate
Dr. Shalko works specifically with urgent and short-term problems, providing practical recommendations and helping patients determine the safest next step. She explains symptoms clearly, guides patients through decision-making and offers straightforward medical advice for everyday acute issues.

She does not provide long-term management of chronic conditions, ongoing follow-up or comprehensive care plans for complex long-term illnesses. Her consultations are designed for acute symptoms, sudden concerns and situations where timely medical input is important.

With clinical experience in both paediatrics and general medicine, Dr. Shalko confidently supports adults and children. Her communication style is clear, simple and reassuring, helping patients feel informed and supported throughout the consultation.

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€50
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Doctor

Tomasz Grzelewski

Dermatology 21 years exp.

Dr Tomasz Grzelewski is an MD, PhD specialist in allergy, paediatrics, general practice and sports medicine, with a clinical focus on dermatology, endocrinology, allergology and sports-related health. He has more than 20 years of clinical experience and completed his medical training at the Medical University of Łódź, where he defended his PhD thesis with distinction. His doctoral research was recognised by the Polish Society of Allergology for its innovative contribution to the field. Throughout his career, he has gained extensive expertise in diagnosing and managing a wide range of allergic and paediatric conditions, including modern allergen desensitisation techniques.

For five years, Dr Grzelewski served as the Head of two paediatric departments in Poland, managing complex clinical cases and leading multidisciplinary teams. He also worked in medical centres in the United Kingdom, gaining experience across both primary care and specialist environments. With over a decade of telemedicine experience, he has provided online consultations across Europe and is valued for his clear, structured and evidence-based medical guidance.

Dr Grzelewski is actively involved in clinical programmes focused on modern anti-allergic therapies. As a Principal Investigator, he leads research projects on sublingual and oral allergen desensitisation, supporting evidence-based progress in allergy treatment for both children and adults.

In addition to his background in allergology and paediatrics, he completed dermatology studies through the Cambridge Education Group (Royal College of Physicians of Ireland) and a Clinical Endocrinology course at Harvard Medical School. This advanced training enhances his ability to manage skin manifestations of allergies, atopic conditions, urticaria, endocrine-related symptoms and complex immunological reactions.

Patients commonly seek his care for:

  • seasonal and perennial allergies
  • allergic rhinitis and chronic nasal symptoms
  • asthma and breathing difficulties
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  • recurrent infections in children
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Dr Tomasz Grzelewski is known for his clear communication style, structured medical approach and ability to explain treatment options in a concise and accessible way. His multidisciplinary background across allergy, paediatrics, dermatology and endocrinology allows him to provide safe, up-to-date and comprehensive care for patients of all ages.
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€80

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a prescription required for VANIQA 11.5% CREAM?
VANIQA 11.5% CREAM requires a prescription in Spain. You can check with a doctor online whether this medicine may be appropriate for your situation.
Who manufactures VANIQA 11.5% CREAM?
VANIQA 11.5% CREAM is manufactured by Almirall S.A.. Pharmacy brands and packaging may differ depending on the distributor.
Which doctors can assess the use of VANIQA 11.5% CREAM online?
Doctors such as Family doctors, Psychiatrists, Dermatologists, Cardiologists, Endocrinologists, Gastroenterologists, Pulmonologists, Nephrologists, Rheumatologists, Hematologists, Infectious disease physicians, Allergists, Geriatricians, Paediatricians, Oncologists may assess whether VANIQA 11.5% CREAM is appropriate, depending on your situation and local regulations. You can book an online consultation to discuss your symptoms and possible next steps.
What are the alternatives to VANIQA 11.5% CREAM?
Other medicines with the same active substance () include ALOCARE 1 mg FILM-COATED TABLETS, ALOCARE 2.275 mg/ml CUTANEOUS SPRAY SOLUTION, ALOCUTAN 50 mg/ml CUTANEOUS SPRAY SOLUTION. These may have different brand names or formulations but contain the same therapeutic ingredient. Always consult a doctor before switching or starting a new medicine.
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